John Ennis, the trainer of Great White, a horse with a remarkable recovery story after a near-scary incident at the Kentucky Derby, is taking no chances ahead of the Preakness Stakes. With Great White's health and performance in mind, Ennis decided to take a hands-on approach, mounting the horse himself for a half-mile breeze at The Thoroughbred Center near Lexington. This personal touch, as Ennis explains, is invaluable for assessing a horse's well-being and performance.
Ennis' decision to ride Great White himself was driven by a desire to gain a deeper understanding of the horse's capabilities and temperament. By feeling every movement and observing the horse's responses, he could discern subtle cues that might have been missed by others. This method allowed him to gauge Great White's responsiveness, cruising speed, and ability to shift gears, all of which are crucial factors in a horse's racing potential.
The half-mile breeze, while not the fastest, served its purpose. Ennis noted that Great White's energy levels were high, and his responsiveness was excellent. This was particularly notable given the horse's recent accident, which could have left him shaken. However, Great White's bounce and enthusiasm were reassuring, indicating that he had fully recovered and was ready for the challenges of the Preakness.
One key insight from this exercise was Great White's need for a target. In his previous race, the Blue Grass Stakes, he set the pace but eventually faded to fifth. Ennis realized that Great White thrives when he has something to focus on, whether it's another horse in front of him or a clear goal. This understanding will be crucial in the Preakness, where he will likely be part of a competitive field.
Looking ahead, Ennis plans to jog Great White the following day to assess his energy levels. If all signs are positive, Great White will head to Laurel Park for the Preakness. Ennis' cautious but confident approach reflects his commitment to ensuring that Great White is in peak condition for the race. This personal involvement, combined with his keen eye for detail, makes him a trainer to watch, and Great White a horse to follow in the Preakness.
In my opinion, Ennis' hands-on approach is a testament to his dedication and expertise. It's a refreshing reminder that in the world of horse racing, where technology and data play significant roles, the personal touch can still make a profound difference. Great White's story is a fascinating one, and I'm eager to see how he performs in the Preakness, with Ennis' guidance and insight.
